Chiropractor, Massage & Pain Relief

Stress and Back Pain

Stress is something we all have to deal with at some stage of our lives, and for many people, so is back pain. It may come as a surprise to learn that stress is actually a common cause of back pain.

In the human body stress stimulates a part of the brain called the limbic system, which causes a release of hormones throughout the body. The hormones cause a physical reaction to stress; shortness of breath, sweating, increased heart rate, muscle tension, tightness or stiffness in joints, etc.

The hormones cause a change in the way in which you breathe. This in turn causes an increase in the tension of the muscles of your upper back and neck, causing poor posture, muscle soreness and headaches.

You can try and treat your own stress; try to control your breathing for a start. Lie on your back with your knees bent. Place one hand on your abdomen and the other on your chest. Take a deep breath through your nose. Take note of which hand moves upwards first. Optimal breating occurs through the diaphragm so the hand on your abdomen should move first. If the hand on your chest moves first then alter your breathing to ensure that the lower hand moves first.

Try this technique for 3-5 minutes every day. And for other solutions to stress, and other health tips, call Tamworth Chiropractic Centre for an appointment.